Have you ever wondered what happens to the samples you send to our laboratory?

Ellie Brookes, Laboratory Technician at VPG Leeds, explains all and tells us more information about her role at the Veterinary Pathology Group (VPG).

How long have you been at VPG?

Just over 4 years, I started in October 2018.

Tell us about your role at VPG.

I originally started as an Admin Assistant and have since become a Laboratory Technician. Most of my day is spent in the lab but I still help out in admin when needed.

Describe an average day in the lab.

Most of our samples come in overnight or via post/DHL so we spend the first few hours of the day opening, numbering and booking in all of the samples.

Then depending on what department I am working in that day I will process either the haematology (making blood smears and running samples through the Sysmex), cytology (prepping fluid samples and making smears) or biochemistry (operating the Beckman and Immulite analysers).

The process then starts again after lunch when we receive the next delivery of samples from our courier.

What’s your favourite thing about your job?

I like that I’m able to work in different areas of the lab whether it be haematology, cytology or biochemistry so it’s nice to have a bit of variety throughout the week! Also everyone I work with, we’re like a little family here at Leeds.

What role did you have before coming to VPG?

I started at VPG after graduating from the University of Leeds in 2018.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy going on long walks with my dog Eve, going to the gym and spending time with friends and family.

How would other people describe you?

Friendly, approachable, hardworking and the best tea maker in the world (according to Lab Manager Pius!)